13 Mar “People are dying”: Premier League boss slams UEFA for “absurd” decision

Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Nuno Espirito Santo has slammed UEFA for forcing his side to play the first leg of their Round of 16 Europa League tie against Olympiacos.

Despite Olympiacos owner Evangelos Marinakis testing positive to coronavirus earlier this week, the match went ahead in Greece on Friday morning AEDT.

Speaking to BT Sport prior to the match, Nuno took aim at UEFA's “absurd decision” not to postpone the match as the COVID-19 outbreak worsens across Europe.

“It’s hard because of the situation that’s happening in the world,” an angry Wolves boss said.

“You play a game of football then you realise what’s happening worldwide – people are dying, and we have to play a game of football.

“It’s absurd.”

Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta tested positive for coronavirus and has been placed in isolation. The training centre at London Colney has been closed as a result.

Several Gunners players came into contact with Marinakis when the Greek club played at the Emirates Stadium on January 27.

The Premier League will hold an emergency meeting to decider whether the current season will be suspended.